Focus on Preventing Falls
Unintentional falls threaten the independence and health of many older adults. More than 90% of hip fractures among adults ages 65 and older are caused by falls. But falls are not an inevitable part of aging. Proven strategies can reduce falls and help older adults live better and longer.
Improving Quality of Life, Reducing Fall Risks
Every year, one in three adults age 65 and older falls. Twenty to 30% of those who fall suffer moderate to severe injuries that can threaten their ability to live healthy, independent lives. The following tips can help prevent falls:
Exercise Regularly
Exercise that improves leg strength, balance and mobility can reduce your risk of falling. Check with a doctor to see what type of exercise is best for you.
Have a Medication Check-Up
Have a health care provider review of all your medications including nonprescription drugs like supplements and cold medicines. Drug interactions or side effects like drowsiness or dizziness can make falls more likely.
Have Your Vision Checked
Schedule a vision check because poor vision or eyesight clouded by cataracts or glaucoma can also increase your chances of falling.
Make Home Safety Improvements
Check for and remove trip hazards, add brighter lighting, and place non-stick mats on shower and bathtub floors. Consider adding grab bars next to and inside your shower or tub.
More Information
CDC offers a variety of materials and resources about older adult falls and what you can do to prevent them.
- Falls Among Older Adults: Brochures and Posters (in English, Spanish, and Chinese)
- Preventing Falls Among Older Adults: Fact Sheets
- Preventing Falls: What Works―A CDC Compendium of Effective Community-based Interventions from Around the World
- Preventing Falls: How to Develop Community-based Fall Prevention Programs for Older Adults
- Falls Among Older Adults: Figures and Graphs
- Division of Unintentional Injury – Podcasts
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